@AustenNut published last week a list of the largest Classics programs. More than big names I’d want to ensure the # of classes offered is ample and with regularity. I’ll see if I can find it to post. I’d look well past the name and admission chances. There was a poll the other year - regional U of Mary Washington was named tops a few years back and College of Charleston is amongst schools with the most grads.
I don’t know but they may have more substantial offerings than other schools. And I’m not saying to apply to these - just that you should ensure enough depth in class and schedule at all schools.
In the same vein, I thought about suggesting U of Cincinnati, which punches way above its weight in Classics… but I’m guessing that most OOS publics won’t work well for this student unless huge merit is involved. And all of these public U’s do have some big merit awards… and 1st gen + diversity might help with getting one… but it seems as if the OP is more focused on schools that meet need, which is understandable.
By way of background, my S24 had a Classics interest. Some scattered thoughts.
St Andrews can be a Likely for US students with the right numbers, and with our feederish HS’s approval my S24 used it that way. But is it on budget for you? I think the cost was going to be over $50K after conversion.
If you like Ivyish sorts of colleges (midsize research universities with an academicky vibe), you might want to consider Rochester and William & Mary (subject to budget issues). I note William & Mary has a joint degree program with St Andrews, and you can do Classics as one of the six majors:
But again, I do wonder about affordability.
Rochester is more just a good all around university but they have a nice flexible curriculum and actually a pretty robust merit program as well.
Among LACs, you might want to check out Haverford. Its Classics department works closely with Bryn Mawr’s, and it is a pretty lively community:
Agree that St Andrews may not be affordable. Tuition for internationals is $37k, plus room, board, flights, etc. Tuition likely to increase every year too.
No financial aid for internationals is available. They want full pay international students!
Johns Hopkins is worth a look for similar reasons. They’ve made some brilliant younger hires in recent years on top of poaching some senior faculty like Marian Feldman.